I Want to Spend My Retirement Touring the World, but the Pandemic is Holding Me Back
We can’t change what’s going on in the world, but we can control what we can do at home
Imagine if you’re already 60+ and you’re already enjoying your retirement. Then, COVID-19 happened. Not only did it lock your prospects of traveling dim, but you’re also at a constant threat of getting ill. People over 60 are more vulnerable to the disease. Those who have died are mostly at this age or over. Doctors advise that if you’re a senior, you have to stay isolated.
Local transmission is still rampant all over the world. Going across borders increases the chances of becoming infected. Therefore, it raises the question — will tourism be just a dream among seniors? Won’t you make your aspiration to travel around the world happen? Just like you, I am a regular traveler, or at least I was (until this). Hence, the idea of not being able to travel is painful.
In the near future, no
It seems like there’s no end in sight for this virus. Even if some places managed to contain the transmission, it’s not true everywhere. There’s a good chance that you will be infected if you use public transportation, especially with planes. It’s best to stay at home until an effective vaccine is discovered and mass-produced.
Even the safety tips like social distancing, washing of hands, and the wearing of masks won’t totally guarantee that you won’t catch the virus. If you’re next to a huge crowd, you could get sick. Total isolation is the only option to avoid the virus at this point, or for the next few months (or years?). Considering that 8 out of 10 deaths reported in the US are aged 65 and above, it’s best not to leave home yet.
Things could change
If a vaccine is discovered and the virus becomes under control, things could change. We won’t have to worry about it. If you’re immune, you can visit different places, and not get sick of the virus. We don’t know how this pandemic is going to end, but it will eventually end.
Let’s hope that scientists working on the vaccine will be successful. By then, you can resume your travel plans. It could be as soon as the end of the year, or it could take several more months.
Take the opportunity to plan
While you’re in isolation, you can use the opportunity to plan your trip. You might even run out of things to do since you’re just home. Use the chance to research every destination well. Prepare your budget and compare the options. Read reviews and watch travel vlogs. These things will help you prepare for your future trip. When it finally happens, you will have a smooth and stress-free trip.
Another benefit of being locked up at home now is that you don’t spend a lot of money. If you’re already receiving your retirement money, you can keep a part of it so you can afford to travel to fancier and more expensive destinations. Even the places that weren’t on your list can be there since you have enough budget to go there in the future.
What to do while waiting
You can’t change what’s going on right now, but you can control what you can do at home. Think about the things you’ve always wanted to do, but didn’t have enough time to do before. If you’ve always wanted to learn a language, you can do it. You can also learn about new household skills. If you don’t cook well or you can’t repair broken items at home, it’s time to do them.
These are skills that require a lot of time to do, and time is all you have now. When you eventually decide to live independently and away from your family, these skills will come in handy.
Understand potential changes in travel regulations
You might be determined to pursue your plans to travel to another country, but there could be additional roadblocks. For instance, requirements for tourist entry might change. Some countries that used to waive a visa if you’re an American passport holder might require you to get a visa. You might be asked to submit more documents or prepare a bigger amount before allowed entry as a tourist. It might be bad news, but you have more time to prepare for them.
You should also understand that these changes are necessary due to recent health concerns. You might even have to show proof of health insurance coverage, including a plan for possible coronavirus treatment. Think of these changes as beneficial, especially if you’re traveling as a senior.
Visit countries that have a good track record in containing the virus. The health care system should also be part of your consideration. You don’t want to get stuck in a country where you couldn’t get quality treatment should you need one.
Again, even if the pandemic is over, you will still need quality care during emergencies. Besides, several hospitals have been placed under immense strain due to the rise in COVID patients. They might still be recovering and you couldn’t get quality care when needed.
It might seem bleak for now because we’re still facing this crisis. However, like anything else, this too shall pass. Stay strong and boost your immune system. You want to stay alive and healthy so that you can still travel in the future when the time is right.
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